Known primarily for Phantasm and The Beastmaster, filmmaker Don Coscarelli ventured into new territory with 1989’s Survival Quest. While not his most renowned film, it’s an enjoyable experience for fans of wilderness survival stories and marks a significant anniversary—its 35th on November 10th. Leading the cast is the ever-engaging Lance Henriksen, supported by Dermot Mulroney and a young Catherine Keener, whose future success adds intrigue to her early performance here.
The plot centers on two contrasting groups engaging in survival training in the wilderness. On one side, we have the group led by Zen-like mountain man Hank (a soulful Henriksen). His trainees include Mulroney’s fresh-faced ex-con, Keener’s reserved divorcee, and comedian Paul Provenza as the comic relief. Opposing them is a more intense, militaristic faction led by Jake (Mark Rolston), an ex-mercenary whose group’s hostile attitude soon creates tension. Jake’s trainee Troy (Steve Antin) escalates things further, leading to a deadly conflict that forces Hank’s group into a harrowing fight for survival.
Henriksen brings his usual gravitas to the role, and while the characters may be somewhat stereotypical, the actors manage to give them a sense of authenticity. Coscarelli wrote and directed, throwing in a few unexpected twists in the third act, although the story’s direction remains fairly straightforward. Still, the movie holds your attention, largely due to the beautiful California landscapes—forests, rapids, mountains, and waterfalls—which add genuine danger to the unfolding events. The rugged setting, paired with impressive stunts, elevates the tension and immerses viewers in the adventure.
Coscarelli’s Survival Quest may be predictable, but it’s carried by its passionate cast, gorgeous scenery, and a commitment to realism in its stunt work. Filmed in 1986 and released in 1989, it exemplifies Coscarelli’s dedication to low-budget storytelling, where enthusiasm outshines limitations. It’s a worthwhile watch, especially for fans of Aguirre, the Wrath of God, First Blood, and The Edge.
Michael Cavender